What to Know30th Annual Butterfly SeasonKidspace Children’s MuseumPasadenaStarts March 13Kids can “Adopt a Caterpillar,” dress like a butterfly, and play among colorful spinning tops — they’re oversized — during the multi-week happeningTickets are available on the Kidspace site
Our springtime to-do lists may not rival the hectic start of the school year or what needs to be quickly done during the holiday season, but there are spring clean-outs to consider, summer plans to ponder, and, on rare and lucky occasion, the uplifting opportunity to adopt a caterpillar.
True, caring for a small critter may not be at the top of every gotta-get-it-done roster, but if you have an animal-loving youngster in your home, and you’ve been thinking about ways to introduce them to the patience and processes of nature, this could be just the tender ticket.
Look to Kidspace Children’s Museum, which flutters with butterfly-themed fun over several weeks each spring. That whimsical and lighter-than-air run begins March 13, and tickets are available for purchase now.
Beyond the popular “Adopt a Caterpillar” program that’s a centerpiece of Butterfly Season, there are adorable activities like creative butterfly dress-up, Bug Safaris, and the charming chance to play among “Los Trompos,” the spinning and sizable tops created by artist Héctor Esrawe.
“‘Los Trompos’ reminds us of the shared histories and vibrant cultures that define our region,” shared Lisa Clements, CEO of Kidspace.
“Like the monarch butterfly, it’s a beautiful metaphor for cultural and geographic connections between Southern California and Mexico.”
The High Museum of Art in Atlanta commissioned the colorful piece, which is making a welcome return to Kidspace.
“For 30 years, Kidspace has been welcoming spring in the most delightful way, with Butterfly Season,” said Ms. Clements.
“We invite families to engage with nature on our outdoor campus, learn about the vital role of conservation, and find joy in the colors and exuberance of springtime.”
If you and your child are eager to make room for a caterpillar, adoptions begin at $8 and your lil’ fuzzy slinker will be available for pick-up at the museum, which is located near the Rose Bowl in Brookside Park. You’ll also want the all-important instructions on caring for your future butterfly, so do read everything on the Kidspace site.
The kick-off to Butterfly Season’s celebratory 30th year will take place during ArtNight Pasadena on March 13; admission to Kidspace will be free from 6 to 10 p.m. and visitors can engage in “art and play” during the engaging evening.